In a flock of broilers with increased mortality and bloody diarrhea, which agent is most appropriate to reduce the risk of coccidiosis?

The most appropriate agent to reduce the risk of coccidiosis in a flock of broilers with increased mortality and bloody diarrhea is Amprolium. Coccidiosis is a common intestinal disease in poultry caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, which leads to severe intestinal damage and can result in bloody diarrhea and high mortality rates among affected birds.

Amprolium is specifically designed to combat coccidial infections by limiting the availability of thiamine (vitamin B1) to the parasites, thereby inhibiting their growth and reproduction. By implementing Amprolium in the flock, it reduces the overall coccidial load and helps control the clinical signs of the disease, which is critical in managing outbreaks and improving flock health and productivity.

Other agents mentioned, such as metronidazole, are primarily effective against anaerobic bacteria and certain protozoal infections but are not effective against coccidia. Tetracycline is an antibiotic used for bacterial infections but does not target the protozoa responsible for coccidiosis. Biotin is a vitamin that supports overall health but does not have a specific action against coccidial infection. Therefore, Amprolium is the most targeted